Huw Llewellyn, 40, an additional learning needs co-ordinator at Fairwater High School, died on May 25, leaving behind his wife, Carol and four young children. Mr Llewellyn was diagnosed with cancer at Christmas and had recently been taken to hospital with a serious infection.

As a consequence of the infection Huw suffered a 'severe stroke and passed away peacefully', a statement on the Fairwater High School website said.

Around 300 people from the community including pupils at Fairwater High School attended his funeral at St Gabriel's Church in Old Cwmbran yesterday afternoon. The service was lead by Father Michael Phillips, team rector of Cwmbran and area dean of Pontypool Deanery.

Hymns sung included 'How great Thou art', 'Calon Lan' and 'Praise, my soul, the King of Heaven.' The family and friends of Mr Llewellyn wore purple ribbons and items of clothing in his memory to represent his favourite Depeche Mode album.

"We loved you very much and we will miss you very much. I love you in all my heart. Alys and Ieuan."

His family wrote a tribute within the order of service which read: "To us he was someone special, someone set apart. His memory will live forever engraved within our hearts." A tribute from Mr Llewellyn's parents John and Ann Llewellyn read: "To our precious son, we will love you always love Mum and Dad."

The family have raised £1,025 so far for charity, with £745 towards Cancer Research UK and £280 towards the British Heart foundation. They asked for donations to the two charities instead of flowers for the service.

The popular teacher had a rare form of cancer known as carcinoid, which are slow growing tumours which affect the neuroendocrine system. Neuroendocrine cells are found in the gut, oesophagus, lungs and the pancreas.

A memorial Facebook page has been set up for people to share their memories and has received 1,712 likes. The service was followed by a cremation at the Gwent Crematorium.